Those exposed are not completely in the clear. The bacteria that causes tuberculosis can remain in the body for a prolonged period of time without showing signs of the infection. This is called Latent TB and it could turn into active TB.

The health department will conduct another round of TB tests at Northern. Those exposed will be monitored for about eight weeks. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a follow-up test about 8-10 weeks following initial exposure to tuberculosis.

“We will begin our second round of testing soon among the individuals who were potentially exposed to TB,” Seña said. “We ask for patience during the completion of this process.”

Tuberculosis is an airborne infection. It is spread from person to person by tiny droplets released into the air through coughs and sneezes.